Solar Thermal Space Heating System
Solar was incorporated in this 2006 new construction project in Brainerd, Minnesota. (8) 4’x10’ Solar Skies solar thermal collectors heat a 120-gallon solar storage tank. The solar heated- water in the storage tank provides preheated water for the backup water heater and space heating. The house is heated with in-floor tubing. During the heating season, when there is enough heat in the solar storage tank, they provide hot water for the radiant floor and radiators. When there is not enough heat in the solar storage tank, a back-up boiler provides the hot water. With the super-insulated walls and south-facing windows, the solar thermal system is producing more than 75% of the total space heating load of the house, in Minnesota!
Innovative Power Systems prefers to use Solar Skies solar thermal collectors for several reasons. The collectors are manufactured in Alexandria, Minnesota. One of the many benefits renewable energy has is the creation of jobs. Solar Skies employs about 12 full-time employees, benefiting the local economy. Solar Skies collectors are also very reliable, with a ten-year warranty. In terms of performance, Solar Skies collectors compare favorably with more expensive flat-plate and evacuated tube collectors.